Saxitoxin

Saxitoxin is a potent natural toxin produced by certain marine microorganisms called dinoflagellates. It can accumulate in shellfish like clams, mussels, and scallops when they filter-feed on these microorganisms. When humans consume contaminated shellfish, saxitoxin can block nerve signals, leading to a illness known as paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), which can cause numbness, paralysis, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. Because of its potency, monitoring and regulating shellfish safety are essential to prevent poisoning. Saxitoxin is also studied for potential medical and research applications due to its specific nerve-blocking properties.